The Better Health for Rural Women, Children, and Internally Displaced Foundation (BERWO) has enrolled 10,000 pregnant women in Ebonyi State into the State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA) scheme at no cost to them.
The Founder of BERWO and Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, announced this on Wednesday during the inauguration of the second phase of the enrolment in Abakaliki. The programme was organized in collaboration with EBSHIA.
According to Nwifuru, the initiative ensures that women have access to quality antenatal care, safe delivery, postnatal services, and emergency medical care without financial burden.
“This life-changing programme captures 10,000 pregnant women into the scheme and reaffirms our commitment to the health and safety of every woman and child in Ebonyi State,” she said.
She explained that the initiative spans all 171 wards of the state and encourages women to register and attend their antenatal appointments. Nwifuru added that the programme reflects her dedication to ensuring that no mother dies during childbirth and that every child has the opportunity to live a healthy life.
Dr. Divine Igwe, Executive Secretary of EBSHIA, said the initiative aligns with the state government’s universal health coverage goals and the “people’s charter of needs” mantra under Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration. He added that enrolled women would be monitored to ensure they access necessary healthcare for safe delivery.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Moses Ekuma, commended Nwifuru for the initiative, noting that the first phase had been a major success.
Other stakeholders, including Odira Ekenezie, Regional Accounts Manager of South-East Field Technology and Development Partners Limited, highlighted their role in providing medical interventions and quality drugs to beneficiaries.
Mrs. Nkechi Echiegu, Chairperson of the EBSHIA Board and BERWO Team Lead, disclosed that the programme also includes initiatives such as baby showers for pregnant women.
Beneficiaries, including Mrs. Success Nkwede and Patience Okwuru, expressed gratitude, praising the initiative for easing the financial burden of accessing medical care.
